E Scooter trials start on June 7th

E-scooters are set to become part of TfL’s rental offering and start in Ealing and other London Boroughs on June 7th.
The trial is part of an attempt to encourage sustainable, active forms of transport and prevent a car-led recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “We want to ensure a green, sustainable recovery from coronavirus, and e-scooters are an alternative to cars that could help with this.”
Between 60 and 150 e-scooters will be available to rent in each area. They will have a maximum speed of 12.5 miles per hour as well as several safety features.
E-scooters will be restricted to cycle lanes and roads as it is illegal in the UK to ride them on footpaths. Any e-scooter that is not part of this trial remains illegal to use other than private land.
Chief Inspector Emma Bullock, Head of Roads Policing, said: “It is illegal to use a motor vehicle without the appropriate licence or insurance.
“As it is not possible to get insurance for private e-scooters, that means it is illegal to use them in a public place.”
“It’s really important to emphasise that if you’re not hiring an e-scooter from SPIN as part of the council pilot scheme, and using it within the areas which are part of the scheme, you’ll be breaking the law.”
Ealing council issued a notice on May 25th outlining parking bays for electric scooters, more details here. Businesses are being paid if they can accommodate the installation of charging points for e-scooters,
Anyone who wishes to object can send a statement in writing of their objection and grounds thereof including the address of the sender to trafficnotices@ealing.gov.uk or by post to the Highways Service, Perceval House, 14-16 Uxbridge Road W5 2HL, quoting reference ORD 4287/P